Former Villanova star Porter passes away

Villanova, PA (Sports Network) – Former Villanova basketball start Howard
Porter died Sunday due to injuries sustained last week near his Minneapolis,
Minnesota home. He was 58.

Porter, a probation officer, was found a week ago severely beaten in an alley
in North Minneapolis. Details remain unclear about what exactly happened, as
the police have made no arrests and currently have no suspects.

“The entire Villanova family is saddened by the news of Howard’s death,”
stated Villanova head coach Jay Wright. “Howard provided so many Villanovans
with thrills on the basketball court playing for Coach (Jack) Kraft. Since his
playing days ended, he has been an outstanding role model for our current
players and coaching staff.”

Porter, one of the greatest players ever to play at Villanova, averaged 22.8
point per game and 14.8 rebounds in 89 career games for the Wildcats from
1968-71. He was a three-time All-American and helped lead Villanova to the
1971 NCAA Final. His No.54 jersey was retired in 1997 and he remains the
school’s all-time rebound leader with 1,317.

“Howard was a kind, gentle, and humble man who loved his family and
Villanova,” added Wright. “We will all miss him.”